Today was about new sights and new experiences.
Our community takes preparing for wildfires very seriously and one of our members had organized a practice drive of an alternate evacuation route. So six cars of devotees joined her for that adventure this morning.
On the one hand, I was enjoying seeing some beautiful new countryside, while on the other hand I was praying that we never have to make that drive in an emergency. Almost all of it was narrow and winding, with steep uphills and downhills, and much of it was unpaved. The dust from the cars ahead of me decreased visibility substantially, giving me an idea of what it might be like to drive it with smoke in the air. A sobering thought.
We eventually reached Nevada City, where another new experience awaited as I joined a couple of friends (and fellow caravan participants) at the Communal Cafe — a lovely new coffee, breakfast, lunch place on Broad Street.
Next was a car wash (all that dust!), followed by visits to a couple of garden supply stores that were also new to me. I’d heard about Peaceful Valley Farm & Garden Supply, but had never checked it out. A beautiful space with lovely people. I bought gopher cages (which were on my list) and three plants (not on the list!).
My main shopping intention was to find two wine barrel planters; they didn’t have any at Peaceful Valley but someone suggested I look at Hills Flat Lumber.
This is a store up on a hill that I’ve seen a gazillion times while driving up and down Hwy 49, but I thought it was only lumber! I was totally surprised to discover household goods, a garden supply, and a well-stocked nursery (and I didn’t even explore three quarters of the store).
Plus they had wine barrel planters — yay!
I really enjoyed a full day of new and different things. I realize I need to do it more often.